Every car enthusiast knows about OEM car parts as well as aftermarket parts for cars. Everyone has their own ideas and choices regarding purchasing parts, or having repairs completed on their vehicle. If you’re taking your car to a dealership to repair, it’s likely that all the parts you’re using are OEM. However, repair shops independent of the dealership typically utilize aftermarket components. Are there any differences in OEM and aftermarket components? Today, we’ll go over the pros and cons of each to assist you in deciding whether OEM or aftermarket parts are the right choice for you. Which is going to be ahead in our OEM or Aftermarket review?
OEM Parts
Let’s begin with the basic. What exactly does OEM mean? OEM means OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. In essence, OEM means that whatever part of your car you purchase comes directly from the car’s manufacturer. Certain parts aren’t directly made by the manufacturer. Ford for instance, might use spark plugs manufactured by a third party. This means that the exact spark plugs can be considered OEM regardless of Ford making them. OEM is about sticking to the original parts of the vehicle when purchased new.
Now we are aware of what OEM is But what are the benefits and drawbacks of making use of OEM instead of aftermarket components.
Cost: One of the major drawbacks of using OEM car components is the cost. In general, OEM parts cost more than the counter parts they purchase from aftermarket. A large portion of the cost has to do with the availability of these parts and. Parts that are made by aftermarket manufacturers end up costing moresince there are numerous companies that make similar parts However, if you wish to buy an OEM component, you’ll have just one option.
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The quality of OEM components generally come with a high quality. Although aftermarket parts might be more expensive than the OEM part You can be sure to feel secure when you choose an OEM part to repair or replace, since you are confident that the product is the same like the part you’re replacing. It’s not a matter of guesswork when it is OEM and you’re aware of the level of quality you’ll receive. When it comes to companies that are known for their precision, such as Audi Parts, you know that the OEM item will be of an excellent standard of quality.
Accessibility for the casual car owner, supply in OEM car parts is difficult. You’ll always have more aftermarket parts. If you’re a car proprietor who doesn’t typically source parts themselves to repair or replace the type of parts you get generally depends on the location you drive your vehicle. If you’re having your vehicle maintained by a dealer you’ll receive OEM parts. But, it’s not likely an individual mechanic will use OEM automobile parts. It is possible to request them to make the OEM parts however this can take some time. If you’re not the kind of person who buys parts prior to making repairs replacement, you’ll find aftermarket parts more easily available.
Aftermarket Car Parts
Aftermarket parts are an excellent choice for replacement parts. The term “aftermarket” is simply the creation of parts by someone other than the producer of your car. Other terms used to describe aftermarket components are generic parts, replacements for competitors parts, or simply non-OEM components. There is a concern that the use of aftermarket auto parts are unsafe and that their quality may be less that OEM components. Let’s examine the quality of aftermarket parts compared with OEM parts.
Cost: Parts from aftermarket stores typically will cost lower that OEM parts. Although you can find costly aftermarket parts, consumers can save 60% on parts from aftermarket stores as per the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America. This is a significant reason that insurance companies typically utilize aftermarket components, since it reduces repairs.
Quality It is the most frequently discussed aspect in the debate of OEM as opposed to aftermarket components. Although you are aware of the quality you’ll receive from an OEM part, aftermarket products will vary in quality. All car parts aren’t alike in this world, which is why it’s crucial to be aware of the kind of aftermarket products you’re buying instead of picking randomly. A group called CAPA is a group of people who Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) has established a process for testing and certification of the aftermarket parts since 1987. If the item you buy has been CAPA approved, then you’re not to encounter any issues with quality. The best part about aftermarket parts is that their quality may even surpass OEM parts. While premium parts may cost more but they’re not all OEM parts are top quality available. The choice of an aftermarket replacement component will ensure longer life on your car, based upon the brand.
Accessibility Parts from aftermarket are readily accessible. Many places you’d take your vehicle for repairs exclusively utilize aftermarket parts, except when OEM components are required and purchased ahead of time. When you go to the car parts shop, you’re guaranteed that you will find an aftermarket component that fits your vehicle. The main benefit of aftermarket parts is the availability. However, this can be problematic. For those who do not have any expertise or experience in the field of automobile parts, a vast choice of options can be overwhelming and challenging. It is often difficult to choose an aftermarket component with so many choices available, while an OEM part is simple to choose, and comes with a certain quality and value.
So which one is better?
Are OEM parts superior to aftermarket ones? There is no definitive answer. After comparing the differentiators in OEM and aftermarket components Both have their fair share of pros and cons. The decision between OEM and aftermarket parts isn’t an easy task in a rational manner. OEM parts are a simple option if you’re just looking to replace an item with the exact part. You’ll be aware of the quality of what you’re receiving however, you could have to pay a little more for it and you’ll likely have to purchase a replacement part rather than simply taking your vehicle for repair to the mechanic. Aftermarket parts are a great source of competition. It can lower prices and improve quality, however there are so many options it’s difficult to choose a product that will be a sure thing that it is better than those on the market. One thing is for certain, aftermarket products aren’t dangerous or manufactured in a cheap manner. The majority of aftermarket parts are likely perform just fine regardless of whether they cost less than their OEM replacement.